Tacos and Tech Podcast

In this episode of Tacos & Tech, Neal Bloom sits down with Cathy Pucher, Executive Director of Entrepreneurship Initiatives at San Diego State University, to trace the roots and the future of San Diego's startup and early-stage investing ecosystem. From Cathy's early career in semiconductor sales at Texas Instruments and front-row seat to Qualcomm's rise, to founding the EvoNexus startup incubator and helping SDSU become a central connector for founders and investors, this conversation is a masterclass in ecosystem-building.Together, Neal and Cathy unpack how San Diego's culture differs from Silicon Valley, why experiential learning matters for both founders and investors, and how the San Diego Angel Conference (SDAC) has become a critical on-ramp for new angel investors while putting meaningful capital to work in local startups. The episode also marks the kick off of SDAC Fund VIII, with applications now live for both startups and aspiring angels.Key Topics Covered* Cathy's journey from electrical engineering at UCSD to global semiconductor sales at Texas Instruments* Early San Diego wireless startups and Qualcomm's role in shaping the ecosystem* Why San Diego's startup culture feels fundamentally different from Silicon Valley* The leap from big tech to startup leadership at PacketVideo* Creating EvoNexus as a free incubator for serial entrepreneurs* How SDSU transitioned from an “island” to an active startup ecosystem connector* Student-led startups and the power of founder–market fit* Why SDSU focuses on connecting founders to existing accelerators instead of duplicating them* The evolution of local angel investing in San Diego* How the San Diego Angel Conference trains and activates new angel investors* What makes SDAC a “learn by doing” model for early-stage investing* The structure, timeline, and goals of SDAC Fund VIII* Why local capital pipelines matter for long-term ecosystem health* How students are now being embedded directly into the angel investing processSan Diego Angel Conference (SDAC) Highlights* Applications for startups are now open* Startups from across the U.S. are eligible (with in-person requirements later in the process)* Investor Knowledge & Network Event: February 10 at C3 Bank* SDSU 2026 Angel Academy: March 6SDSU SDAC program is designed for accredited investors who want:• A structured way to learn early-stage investing• Exposure to real startups and real diligence• A peer group to learn alongside• Deeper connection to the San Diego startup ecosystem* Meetings kick off week of March 9th thru late MayIf you're curious, SDSU is hosting a 2026 SDAC Information Sessions:Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 4:00 pm* Zoom link: https://SDSU.zoom.us/j/89569142579?jst=2Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 12-1 pm* Message me for the linkLinks & Resources* San Diego Angel Conference* Lavin Entrepreneurship CenterConnect on LinkedIn* Cathy Pucher* Neal Bloom This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!1/24/2026* Blueprint Equity new fund 3 $333M* Seasats wins $24 million DoD award* Trust & Will new product* New hires at mPower and funding?Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote* 2026 VC Outlook - Jan. 29* Farmers Open - Jan 29 - Feb 1* AFCEA West - Feb. 10-12* TechCon - Feb. 12-13 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

A short audio reflection I recorded after noticing where momentum actually comes from.It's not from more events.It's from proximity, repetition, and trust.

In this episode of Tacos & Tech, Neal Bloom sits down with longtime friend, founder, and self-described “Maine Melon,” Jared Ruth, founder of Ripcurrent. What starts as a walk down memory lane through San Diego's early startup ecosystem turns into a wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, marketing, AI, and the human moments technology should protect - not replace.Jared shares his journey from decades in telecom and corporate innovation to building Ripcurrent, a marketing and automation agency focused on Main Street businesses. Together, Neal and Jared unpack how generative AI and no-code tools have radically lowered the barrier to building, why small businesses are both overwhelmed and empowered by tech, and how the next era of marketing isn't about shouting louder - it's about removing friction so humans can show up where it matters most.Key Topics Covered* Jared's path from telecom and corporate innovation to founding Ripcurrent* Early days of San Diego's startup ecosystem, Founder Dinners, and CTO roundtables* Building “startups inside big companies” and why that experience matters* The moment GenAI unlocked solo building and rapid experimentation* Vibe coding, no-code tools, and the rise of AI-native workflows* Why small and Main Street businesses struggle with modern marketing tech* Google Business Profiles, search, and what visibility means in an LLM-driven world* Automation as a way to remove transactional work - not human connection* Where AI agents help brands and where they can quietly destroy trust* Why trust and brand moments matter more than the underlying technology* Parallels between AI adoption and autonomous driving trust curves* Using technology to give business owners their time - and humanity - back* The optimism (and responsibility) that comes with building in the AI eraLinks & Resources* RipcurrentConnect with Jared & Neal* Jared Ruth* Neal Bloom This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

A short audio reflection I recorded after noticing a familiar pattern while reading rock band autobiographies over the holidays.It's not about music.It's about how talent develops -slowly, quietly, over time. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!1/15/2026* CES debrief* JPM happening now* Fundings & Acquisitions:* Ventyx acquired by Lily for $1.2B* Mirador Therapeutics Raises $250M Series B* ibio $26M in Private Placement Funding* BlueNalu Funding* Cubic & Palantir teaming up* Resmed gets FDA approval on AI CPAP* Air Surgical Lands $2.6M GrantCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteTechCon Austin - Feb 12-13 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Tacos & Tech, Neal Bloom sits down with Eric Aguilar, co-founder and CEO of Omnitron Sensors, to unpack the deep tech powering the next wave of robotics, autonomous systems, and AI infrastructure. From Eric's early days working on defense sensors and his journey through Google and Tesla, to building one of the most powerful MEMS-based micro-machines on the market, this conversation explores why physical AI is finally having its moment - and what it takes to solve real-world reliability problems at scale.Eric breaks down why LiDAR has struggled to reach mass adoption, how Omnitron rethought the problem from first principles, and why the same core technology is now attracting attention from trillion-dollar hyperscalers looking to radically reduce data center power consumption. Along the way, they dive into biomimicry, energy efficiency, manufacturing constraints, and what it really means to build a “painkiller, not a vitamin.”Key Topics Covered* Eric's path from Navy research labs to Google, Tesla, and founding Omnitron Sensors* Why LiDAR reliability - not hype - has been the biggest blocker to autonomous systems* How MEMS-based silicon micro-machines replace failure-prone mechanical LiDAR components* The “war on LiDAR” and why cameras alone still fall short in autonomy* Omnitron's breakthrough in building large, high-force, highly reliable MEMS mirrors* Why physical AI and robotics are converging right now* How Omnitron's technology extends beyond automotive into AI data centers and optical switching* Saving massive amounts of energy by keeping data optical instead of electrical* The hidden challenges of scaling hardware, manufacturing, and global supply chains* Why MEMS has historically been underfunded - and why that's changing* Biomimicry as a tool for engineering breakthroughs* Advice for engineers and operators thinking about taking the leap into startups* Why the best startups solve urgent pain, not “nice-to-have” problems* Eric's very non-consensus taco pick (hint: it's a legendary San Diego burger)Links & Resources* Omnitron Sensors – https://www.omnitronsensors.comConnect with Eric* Eric Aguilar on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

I've been noticing something lately about what happens after meetings -and what changes when the work doesn't stall anymore. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this live session from a recent SDAC Knowledge & Network Event hosted at Mintz Law's office, investor Neal Bloom and corporate attorney Sebastian Lucier pull back the curtain on what due diligence really means for early-stage startup investing.Whether you're a founder preparing to fundraise or an aspiring angel investor doing your first deal, this session is packed with sharp insights and war stories - from spotting red flags on cap tables to identifying green flags that signal breakout potential.Moderated by Cathy Pucher, this conversation offers a rare dual lens: from the investor side and the legal side.Key Topics Covered:* Why due diligence is different for early-stage companies* How to structure founder equity and employment terms the right way* Why investor scorecards work best as conversation tools, not decision tools* When to walk away - even after doing the work* How investors stay involved after the check clearsConnect on LinkedIn:* Sebastian Lucier – Mintz* Cathy Pucher – SDSU ZIP Launchpad* Neal Bloom – Rising Tide Partners This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!1/5/2026Draft numbers of total VC Investment into SD Companies in 2025: $3.4BSelect top fundings:* Tech:* ShieldAI $240M, Cybereason $120M, Flock Fleight $60M, Clearspeed $60M, FABRIC8LABS $50M, Equip $46M* Biotech:* Crystalis Therapeutics $205M; Timberlyne Therapeutics $180M; Protego Biopharma $130M; Aspen Neuroscience $115M; Raythera $110M2025 Acquisitions:* Avidity $12B by Novartis* Cidara Therapeutics $9.2B Merck* Capstan Thera $2.1B by AbbVie* Arthrosi Thera $1B* Kate Thera $1.1B* Regulus Therapeutics acquired by Novartis ($1.7B)* Nalu Medical $500MIPOs:* Aardvark Thera* Aptera* Once Upon A Farm* Carlsmed* MapLight Therapeutics2026 Predictions* More IPOs & M&A, market up* Fundings up, in specific areas, more in other markets than SD* More return to office, in specific areasCarta Startup Ranking - San Diego #6Trust & Will Holiday BowlTED announced move to SDCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteCES - Jan. 5-10Carlsbad Industry Exchange - Jan. 6JPM - Jan. 12-15State of Venture event - Jan. 29 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

A short audio reflection on something I've been noticing about willpower - and what happens when it quietly stops being the thing that matters.This episode isn't about discipline.It's about what changes when friction is removed instead of resisted.That's what's on my radar. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

A short audio reflection on something I haven't been able to stop thinking about since my first ride in a Waymo.Not because the technology was impressive -but because of what happened to my attention once I stopped needing to be alert.This episode isn't about autonomy.It's about what changes when vigilance disappears.That's what's on my radar. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode, we bring you a practical, high-context walkthrough of early-stage investing hosted by the San Diego Angel Conference (SDAC). With insights from the Pillsbury ECVC legal team and SDAC organizers, this session offers angel investors - both new and experienced - a clear breakdown of key financing instruments like SAFEs, convertible notes, and priced equity rounds.We cover the structure and implications of different entity types (C-Corps, LLCs, S-Corps), the nuance behind valuation caps and discounts, the benefits of pro rata rights, and the tax advantages of Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS). Whether you're gearing up for Fund 8 or thinking about writing your first check, this session equips you with the frameworks and real-world insights you need to invest smarter.Key Topics Covered* Why SDAC is building year-round investor education & networking events* Overview of startup legal structures: LLCs vs. C-Corps (and why Delaware still leads)* What investors should understand about SAFE agreements* How post-money valuation caps really work (and how they differ from discounts)* Why side letters can protect your upside: pro rata, info rights, MFNs, and more* How convertible notes differ from SAFEs and when they might be preferable* Real red flags on cap tables and what they tell you about a company's past* What to know about Zombie SAFEs (and how to avoid them)* Tax advantages of Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) and recent updates to eligibility* The evolving dynamics of angel rounds, bridge financing, and recapitalizationsLinks & Resources* San Diego Angel Conference Website* Qualified Small Business Stock Overview – IRS This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Jared Tangney, co-founder and CTO of Biolinq. From their early EvoNexus days to today's FDA clearance, Jared walks us through the incredible journey of Biolinq - how it pivoted from sweat-sensing tattoos to a revolutionary microneedle platform that can measure glucose, lactate, and even cortisol with no blood and no pain.Jared shares how a Mailchimp newsletter led to their first investor, Mark Cuban, and why he believes San Diego is the global epicenter for biosensing innovation. With a focus on serving the largest segment of the diabetes population and plans to expand into broader metabolic and stress biomarkers, Biolinq is changing what's possible in wearable health tech.Key Topics Covered:* How Biolinq's microneedle platform works and why it matters* From sweat-based sensors to skin-based semiconductors* Lessons from nearly a decade of R&D and pivots* Measuring glucose, lactate, and now cortisol - what's next?* How a newsletter sign-up brought Mark Cuban in as the first investor* Navigating FDA clearance and commercialization strategies* San Diego's competitive edge in biosensing, diabetes tech, and medical wearables* The growing importance of AI and multi-analyte sensing in personal health* Reflections on community, startup persistence, and tacos (Fish 101 for the win)Links & Resources:Learn more about BiolinqConnect with Jared Tangney:LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this special live episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, we take you inside the latest Burbank Tech Talk event, recorded at Tailored Space in the heart of the Media Capital of the World. This panel brought together creators, founders, and technologists to explore the fast-shifting landscape of entertainment, gaming, and AI—and what it means for the future of storytelling, monetization, and creativity.From visual effects to streaming-era music deals to real-time game personalization powered by AI, this episode dives into what's working now, what's being disrupted, and what's coming next. Whether you're a founder, artist, developer, or fan of the future, you'll walk away with clear-eyed insights on where media and tech are headed.In this episode, we cover:* Why AI is more workflow revolution than job replacement—and how creators are adapting* The rise of AI-as-inspiration in music, gaming, and film* How independent creators can build real businesses with the new tools (if they think like founders)* Why monetization and royalties are still the biggest friction points in music tech* What's coming next: global content, micro-audiences, and curated experiences in the AI era* The growing importance of local innovation ecosystems like Burbank in a rapidly decentralized creative economyFeatured Speakers:* Nova Renay– Host and moderator, composer, producer, and creative technologist* George Karalexis and Donna Budica of Ten2 – Music entrepreneurs helping artists monetize through content transparency and UGC* Alan Lasky – Former VFX and studio exec, speaking on the evolution of visual effects and media economics* Cody Germain – Founder of Bear Club Games, previously at Riot and Epic Games, sharing how AI is transforming real-time gameplay and player experienceKey Topics Covered:* The myths vs. realities of AI in creative work* How generative tools like Suno and Sora are being used behind the scenes by major producers* AI in game engines, browser-based games, and new distribution channels* The death of theatrical? What it means for local film production* Independent vs. major label artist trajectories in the TikTok era* The opportunity for cities like Burbank to lead through local investment in experimentation, talent, and infrastructureLinks & Resources:* Tailored Space – coworking host location* Burbank Economic Development Division* Ten2 Media* Rise and Tide Partners* Upcoming Burbank Events:* Burbank Tech Talks: [Tech, Talent & the New Learning Economy] – January 20, 2026Watch the Recording:

SDSU ZIP Fall 2025 Bootcamp: Building Fast, Building SmartIn this special edition of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, we dive into the action-packed day that was the SDSU ZIP Launchpad Fall 2025 Startup Bootcamp. Designed to push student founders from idea to impact in just four hours, the students go from brand new ideas on a whiteboard, using AI co-pilots to get quick customer development simulations, building a first product with generative AI, and then actually selling pre-orders or actual sales - all in less than 4 hours. This bootcamp introduced a two-track system - Problem-First and Idea-First - giving students the chance to either discover a real-world problem or go all-in on an idea they already had.We cover how over 100 students used AI tools, street interviews, customer empathy techniques, and rapid prototyping to validate their assumptions, build MVPs, and in most cases - make actual sales.Craig Lauer, Cameron Brock, Erica Snider, and the SDSU ZIP Launchpad/Lavin Entrepreneurship Center led an incredible day to support founders from the start.In this episode, we cover:* The design of the two-track builder experience: Track A (Problem-First) and Track B (Idea-First)* What it means to validate ideas through customer currency* Why teams that pivoted based on user feedback outperformed others* Key takeaways from the guest session with Chris Barber on deep customer empathy* Behind-the-scenes reflections from mentors and organizers* Final results: over 222 real-world sales transactions in just four hoursKey Results:* 222+ real-world transactions by student teams* Dozens of MVPs launched using GPT, Canva, V0, and no-code tools* Multiple teams built landing pages, got preorders, and refined pitches based on live feedback* Winning teams were recognized for best problem validation, most sales, and strongest empathy-driven designMy dream is for every (SDSU) student to start their first week of school with a sprint like this—where they learn their own potential by building, validating, and selling on Day 1. The ZIP Launchpad and Lavin Entrepreneurship Center make that possible, but only with continued community support.If you'd like to help fuel more student builders, you can contribute to the SDSU Lavin Seed Fund here:https://business.sdsu.edu/news/2025/11/lavin-entrepreneurs This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this special edition of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, we recorded live from Snapdragon Stadium during the 2025 Top Tech Awards San Diego.We set up shop right on the concourse and captured conversations with the builders, technologists, students, and community leaders shaping the region's innovation economy. From cybersecurity to community impact, from AI in education to employee scheduling powered by LLMs—this episode captures the real pulse of San Diego tech, one voice at a time.Oh, and plenty of taco recommendations.Episode Highlights:* Julie Oliveira, Director of Tech at South Bay Union School District, shares how COVID reshaped education and why student creation over consumption is key.* RingCentral's Erica and Natalie talk AI, seamless work-life blending, and mobile-first sales workflows.* John Stern (Ringpin) shares how location-based QR tech is transforming retail hiring.* Bill Smith (Chrome Roads) explains how a smart ID badge is changing how workers log in, stay secure, and get help fast.* Cal State San Marcos and SDSU students reflect on entering the workforce during the AI boom - and how they're already using AI to job hunt.* Citroen Cooperman leaders dive into fractional CFO services, ERP upgrades, and what happens when AI + accounting get serious.* Jeff Blanton (Conscious Curiosity SD) breaks down how B Corps and values -driven leadership are shaping a new tech economy.* Marco Thompson (Arcus Nexus) recaps a decade of cross-border startup support and nearshoring before it was cool.* Cheryl Goodman (Mind the Machine podcast) explores AI's human implications and why the next big thing isn't the tool - but the culture shift it forces.* European founders visiting via the YTILI program reflect on their first impressions of San Diego's startup scene.* Ron Nielakes and Shirin Alipana highlight how the YMCA of Escondido is evolving to serve its community with purpose, tech, and tacos.Taco Intel You Didn't Know You Needed:* Anaheim's Tacos Los Cholos and Escondido's TJ Tacos made the list* Learn about the loaded fries that may or may not have been invented in North County* Where to find the best post-party tacos near Snapdragon Stadium (hint: Tacos El Gordo and Puesto)

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!11/21BlueTech Week / UCSD Space SymposiumDefense Tech in SD is goingPrebys Ventures writes 5 checksBrainstorm Thera wins NVIDIA AwardTechnology FundingsFabric8Labs Raises $50MMuse Software Raises $4.5MInfracost Raises $15M Series ABiotech FundingsIambic Therapeutics $100M Series BModel Medicines Raises $3MCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Julie Sokol, Chief Technology Officer of OC Sports & Entertainment, to explore the intersection of immersive fan experiences, smart infrastructure, and placemaking through technology. Julie shares her journey from nearly 25 years in management consulting with Accenture to real estate with the Irvine Company, and now helping shape the ambitious 100+ acre OC Vibe sports and entertainment district surrounding the Honda Center in Anaheim.From making parking frictionless to redefining what it means to be a digital concierge, Julie and her team are building more than a venue - they're crafting a next-generation, tech-enabled community destination. Neal and Julie discuss everything from women's sports and live entertainment to infrastructure partnerships with Cox and supporting local chefs and rising performers.Key Topics Covered:* Julie's career journey from Accenture to real estate to OC Sports & Entertainment* What OC Vibe is and how it's reshaping the Southern California experience* Building a “smart” sports + entertainment district from the ground up* How tech enables seamless, immersive guest experiences* Collaborating with Cox and other partners on broadband and infrastructure* Supporting women's sports, the 2028 Olympics, and the World Volleyball Championship* Launching a curated food hall and investing in local culinary talent* The role of data in powering the digital concierge and connected community* What it's like building tech leadership on a greenfield projectAbout Julie Sokol:Julie is the Chief Technology Officer of OC Sports & Entertainment, leading the digital and tech transformation of OC Vibe - a 100+ acre mixed-use sports, entertainment, hospitality, and residential district built around the Honda Center in Anaheim. Previously, she held senior leadership roles at Accenture and the Irvine Company.Resources & Links:* OC Vibe Website* Learn more about the Honda Center* Connect with Julie Sokol on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

This week on the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal sits down with Mike Sims, Marine Raider turned venture builder, to talk about how his experience across the military, VC, and global battlefields shaped his mission with Imperium, a trusted marketplace for critical goods and the industrial base.They explore how modern warfare is redefining innovation cycles, why our national supply chain needs a rethink, and how San Diego is quietly becoming the epicenter of U.S. defense tech.Key Topics Covered:* Mike's journey from blue-collar trade school to Marine Corps Special Operations* What most people misunderstand about military tech adoption and procurement* How frontline innovation - like in Ukraine - reveals deeper supply chain insights* Why the defense supply base is aging, fragmented, and missing credit infrastructure* The role of marketplaces and automation in rebuilding America's industrial edge* How Imperium is working to reduce friction and increase trust between buyers and suppliers* Why we need more engineers at the front lines, not just HQ* San Diego's unique strengths: hard tech talent, military end-users, and lifestyle advantage* The difference between building tech for persistent problems vs. fleeting missions* Thoughts on labor, robots, AI, and the human cost of “re-industrialization”* What's next for the defense tech ecosystem and how founders, veterans, and investors can plug inLinks & Resources:* Learn more about Imperium* Read more about Lux CapitalConnect with the Guest:* Mike Sims: LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!11/8Eric Topol AI x Healthcare talk debriefGA launches new droneScripps and UCSD win $4M grant for stem cell researchGSK pens a $750M deal with SD-based EmpiricoQualcomm Ventures Celebrates 25th AnniversaryTide Rock Reaches $1B in Acquisition CapitalCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

This week on the Tacos & Tech Podcast, we dive into San Diego's growing Bluetech ecosystem with Vanessa Scott, Director of Industry Relations, Innovation, and the StartBlue Accelerator at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UCSD. Vanessa shares how StartBlue helps launch and scale ocean-focused startups - from wave-powered sensor platforms to coral reef restoration biotech - and why San Diego is uniquely positioned to lead the future of the blue economy.From mentoring early-stage companies to securing a $14M NOAA grant, Vanessa is building the bridge between science, startups, and global sustainability right here on the California coast.Key Topics* What is Bluetech? And why it goes far beyond just the ocean* The origin and evolution of the StartBlue Accelerator* Scripps Institution of Oceanography's century-long legacy of innovation* Why Bluetech needs business minds and scientists* How San Diego became a hub for ocean startups and blue data infrastructure* The importance of community, collaboration, and programs like I-Corps* What to expect at Blue Tech Month, including in-water demos and tall ship meetups* Startup highlights: Hybrid Reef, Del Mar Oceanographic, Ocean Motion, Kaipono, and moreLinks & Resources:* StartBlue Accelerator* Scripps Institution of Oceanography* Blue Tech Month Events via TMA BlueTech* BlueNalu – Cultivated Seafood InnovationConnect with Vanessa:* LinkedIn – Vanessa Scott This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!10/30Uncharted : Pitches DebriefM&A NewsAvidity Acquired by Novartis for $12BHologic Acquired by Blackstone and TPGState of Life SciencesThe SD Investor List goes liveFundingsWalla raise $5MUnigrid Battery Receives $2.9M GrantWildcat Discovery Technologies $4.9MASML / Cymer competitor comes out of stealthQualcomm AI chipEDC Recognizes 30 Top Companies in San Diego: Nautilus, LENZ Therapeutics, etc.Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteSD Founders Hike - Nov 7 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this week's episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal sits down with Faisal Mushtaq - tech exec, startup scaler, author, and community builder - to explore the lessons learned from operating at every level of the tech stack: from startups in stealth to global public companies.Faisal shares how his engineering roots led him into roles scaling teams of three to three thousand, the value of building across verticals, and why he sees writing, mentorship, and convening not as extracurricular, but essential to long-term impact.He also unpacks the origin story of TechCon Global, and what's next as the cross-regional tech summit expands from San Diego to Austin and beyond.Key Topics:* The difference between being an operator and being a scaler and why you need both* What startups can learn from big companies (and vice versa)* How blogging became Faisal's medium for frameworks, reflection, and teaching* The importance of building bridges between startup ecosystems and the design of TechCon as that connective tissue* Why giving first is the only real long-term strategy for community leadership* How AI tools are changing how we write, work, and relate but not how we connectLinks & Resources:* TechCon Global* TechCon Southwest – Feb 12–13, AustinTechCon Global* TechCon SoCal 2026 – May 22–23, San Diego* Use the special discount code SOCAL26RTP at the link here to get 15% off regular tickets* Find all books here → Faisal Mushtaq on AmazonConnect with Faisal* Follow Faisal on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!10/10SD Startup Week debriefState of Biotech EcosystemFunding News* Turnout $21M Seed* Crystalys Therapeutics $205M Series A* Once Upon a Farm IPOSnapdragon Summit - Qualcomm announcements & Eyepop AI announcementsCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteSD Founders Hike - Oct 10Stocktoberfest Oct 20-22Carlsbad Industry Exchange - Biotech - Oct 22SD Defense Tech Coffee / Build Day Oct 23 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   10/10 SD Startup Week debrief State of Biotech Ecosystem Funding News Turnout $21M Seed Crystalys Therapeutics $205M Series A Once Upon a Farm IPO Snapdragon Summit - Qualcomm announcements & Eyepop AI announcements Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote SD Founders Hike - Oct 10 Stocktoberfest Oct 20-22 Carlsbad Industry Exchange - Biotech - Oct 22 SD Defense Tech Coffee / Build Day Oct 23

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, we sit down with Matt Ober, Managing Partner at Social Leverage, to unpack the future of fintech, the evolving landscape of wealth tech, and what it means to build and invest with long-term conviction. Matt shares his journey from hedge funds and quant trading to early-stage venture capital, with stops at Bloomberg, WorldQuant, and Third Point before joining Social Leverage. We talk about the firm's investing thesis, from Robinhood and Alpaca to the social side of investing with Stocktwits and the upcoming Stocktoberfest event in San Diego. From deep dives on compliance tooling and wealth advisor rollups to the convergence of trading, crypto, and sports betting - this episode maps the edges of where fintech is headed next. Key Topics covered: Matt's path from hedge fund data scientist to early-stage investor The origin story of Social Leverage and how its partners found each other Fintech then vs. now: what's changed and what hasn't Why wealth management is ripe for disruption Regulation, crypto, and the blending of gambling, investing, and community How Stocktwits still matters in a Robinhood world The magic of Stocktoberfest and how in-person density builds stronger networks What it's like building and investing from San Diego Links & Resources Social Leverage Stocktwits Stocktoberfest - October 20-22, 2025 Connect with Matt LinkedIn X Fintech, Forecasts, and Stocktoberfest

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, we sit down with Matt Ober, Managing Partner at Social Leverage, to unpack the future of fintech, the evolving landscape of wealth tech, and what it means to build and invest with long-term conviction.Matt shares his journey from hedge funds and quant trading to early-stage venture capital, with stops at Bloomberg, WorldQuant, and Third Point before joining Social Leverage. We talk about the firm's investing thesis, from Robinhood and Alpaca to the social side of investing with Stocktwits and the upcoming Stocktoberfest event in San Diego.From deep dives on compliance tooling and wealth advisor rollups to the convergence of trading, crypto, and sports betting - this episode maps the edges of where fintech is headed next.Key Topics covered:* Matt's path from hedge fund data scientist to early-stage investor* The origin story of Social Leverage and how its partners found each other* Fintech then vs. now: what's changed and what hasn't* Why wealth management is ripe for disruption* Regulation, crypto, and the blending of gambling, investing, and community* How Stocktwits matters even more in a Robinhood world* The magic of Stocktoberfest and how in-person density builds stronger networks* What it's like building and investing from San DiegoLinks & Resources* Social Leverage* Stocktwits* Stocktoberfest - October 20-22, 2025Connect with Matt* LinkedIn* X This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!10/3Defense Tech Gathering debriefFred's story on Harpoon's Black FlagAvenzo Therapeutics series BCrinetics wins FDA approvalBiolinq receives de novo designationEli Lily new ribbon cuttingAlvys Series BAirport opened T1New Alaska Airlines lounge comingCal San Marcos Receives $10 million for STEM buildingSempra selling a $10B stake in Sempra InfrastructureCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteStartup Week Oct 6-10Connect New Leadership EventSD Defense Tech Gathering - Oct 23 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Aleksey Matyushev, co-founder and CEO of Natilus, the San Diego-based aerospace company reinventing air freight and passenger travel with next-gen aircraft. With over $39 billion in orders and a growing footprint in South County, Natilus is bringing cutting-edge manufacturing back to San Diego. Aleksey shares his journey from growing up near a Soviet airfield to becoming an aerodynamicist at Piper and Kratos. He walks us through the founding story of Natilus, early pivots from seaplanes to blended wing bodies, and how customer feedback (and cold emails) helped shape the company's strategy. Plus, we dive into capital efficiency, certification pathways, and how Natilus is carving out space in a market long dominated by Boeing and Airbus. Key Topics Covered: The legacy of aerospace in San Diego and why Natilus is doubling down here Aleksey's path from Piper Aircraft to Kratos to Natilus Lessons learned from military-grade drones and commercial aviation The first MVP: a 30-foot autonomous seaplane built in 14 months Why cargo came first - and how airlines asked for passenger planes next The Kona and Horizon: aircraft designed for freight and people, optimized for fuel, volume, and cost Navigating testing, tooling, and certification with just $15M in capital raised Why wind tunnels, FAA approvals, and Brown Field are key San Diego assets How India became a fast-moving market for commercial orders The future of aviation as seen from South County, San Diego Links & Resources Natilus Learn more about Rising Tide Partners Connect with Aleksey & Neal Connect with Aleksey on LinkedIn Connect with Neal Bloom on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Aleksey Matyushev, co-founder and CEO of Natilus, the San Diego-based aerospace company reinventing air freight and passenger travel with next-gen aircraft. With over $39 billion in orders and a growing footprint in South County, Natilus is bringing cutting-edge manufacturing back to San Diego.Aleksey shares his journey from growing up near a Soviet airfield to becoming an aerodynamicist at Piper and Kratos. He walks us through the founding story of Natilus, early pivots from seaplanes to blended wing bodies, and how customer feedback (and cold emails) helped shape the company's strategy. Plus, we dive into capital efficiency, certification pathways, and how Natilus is carving out space in a market long dominated by Boeing and Airbus.Key Topics Covered:* The legacy of aerospace in San Diego and why Natilus is doubling down here* Aleksey's path from Piper Aircraft to Kratos to Natilus* Lessons learned from military-grade drones and commercial aviation* The first MVP: a 30-foot autonomous seaplane built in 14 months* Why cargo came first - and how airlines asked for passenger planes next* The Kona and Horizon: aircraft designed for freight and people, optimized for fuel, volume, and cost* Navigating testing, tooling, and certification with just $15M in capital raised* Why wind tunnels, FAA approvals, and Brown Field are key San Diego assets* How India became a fast-moving market for commercial orders* The future of aviation as seen from South County, San DiegoLinks & Resources* Natilus* Learn more about Rising Tide PartnersConnect with Aleksey & Neal* Connect with Aleksey on LinkedIn* Connect with Neal Bloom on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!9/19Broader Defense Tech:Harpoon x Firestorm Mixer DebriefEl Segundo Defense Tech Mixer DebriefFirestorms Labs opens 60,000 SFT Facility in Mira MesaBiotech:Treeline Biosciences emerges from stealth with $200M backed by ARCH Venture.Arnatar Therapeutics focused on precision RNA therapies emerges from stealth.Debut Bio raises and expands to AsiaYatiri - acquired another startupLuna Diabetes raises a Series ACurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteSept 26 - Defense Tech GatheringOct 3-5 - Startup WeekendOct 6-10 - SD Startup Week This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   9/19 Broader Defense Tech: Harpoon x Firestorm Mixer Debrief El Segundo Defense Tech Mixer Debrief Firestorms Labs opens 60,000 SFT Facility in Mira Mesa   Biotech: Treeline Biosciences emerges from stealth with $200M backed by ARCH Venture. Arnatar Therapeutics focused on precision RNA therapies emerges from stealth. Debut Bio raises and expands to Asia Yatiri - acquired another startup Luna Diabetes raises a Series A   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote Sept 26 - Defense Tech Gathering Oct 3-5 Startup Weekend Oct 6-10 SD Startup Week

This week on Tacos & Tech, Neal sits down with Rose Bowlus - lawyer, founder, and angel investor - whose journey from trading floors to startup boardrooms brings a rare blend of Wall Street experience and founder empathy.Rose shares how her legal career evolved from the capital markets and energy sectors to launching her own firm, Rose Bowlus Law, where she now advises early-stage startups and funds. They talk legal tech, Web3, fintech moats, and what founders often overlook when raising capital. Plus, Rose unpacks her growing role as an investor, how she's empowering other lawyers through her Angels in the Law network, and what she looks for in the next generation of legal innovation.Key Topics* Rose's career path from Berkeley to in-house counsel to founding her own law firm* Legal insights for fintech, Web3, and capital markets* How regulation shapes - and lags - innovation in financial services* Trends in legal tech adoption and where traditional firms are falling behind* Her philosophy of “give first” investing and building a founder-friendly syndicate* The origin story of Angels in the Law and the rise of lawyer-investors* Why clarity is everything when supporting (or funding) founders* Rose's controversial taco take: Islands, North County editionLinks & resources* Rose Bowlus Law* Rising Tide Partners* Women's Venture SummitConnect on LinkedIn* Connect with Rose on LinkedIn* Connect with Neal on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

This week on Tacos & Tech, Neal sits down with Rose Bowlus - lawyer, founder, and angel investor - whose journey from trading floors to startup boardrooms brings a rare blend of Wall Street experience and founder empathy. Rose shares how her legal career evolved from the capital markets and energy sectors to launching her own firm, Rose Bowlus Law, where she now advises early-stage startups and funds. They talk legal tech, Web3, fintech moats, and what founders often overlook when raising capital. Plus, Rose unpacks her growing role as an investor, how she's empowering other lawyers through her Angels in the Law network, and what she looks for in the next generation of legal innovation. Key Topics Rose's career path from Berkeley to in-house counsel to founding her own law firm Legal insights for fintech, Web3, and capital markets How regulation shapes - and lags - innovation in financial services Trends in legal tech adoption and where traditional firms are falling behind Her philosophy of “give first” investing and building a founder-friendly syndicate The origin story of Angels in the Law and the rise of lawyer-investors Why clarity is everything when supporting (or funding) founders Rose's controversial taco take: Islands, North County edition Links & resources Rose Bowlus Law Rising Tide Partners Women's Venture Summit Connect on LinkedIn Connect with Rose on LinkedIn Connect with Neal on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Eric Birkemeier, founder of ShredLights and now part of Meepo Electric Skateboards. Eric's story is a wild ride - from 3D-printing in the SDSU ZIP Launchpad and selling Jordans out of thrift stores, to building a niche hardware company and ultimately exiting to a global electric skateboard brand.They unpack how Eric turned an early failed Kickstarter into a business with over $1M+ in revenue (with zero ad spend!), the importance of discovering product-market fit through real customer feedback, and the emotional rollercoaster of running and eventually selling a hardware startup during a downturn. From bootstrapping to navigating COVID, tariffs, and copycats - Eric shares what it really takes to get to the finish line (and how the finish line is just another beginning).Key Topics Covered:* From basement builds to business: Eric's early love for inventing and entrepreneurship* The SDSU ZIP Launchpad, finding community, and the startup that wasn't a fit* Why the wrong customers helped him discover the right market* Pivoting from skate culture to the growing micro-mobility movement* Scaling from 3D printers to overseas supply chains - and the lessons from doing it the hard way* How Kyle and Eric's founder relationship helped them navigate burnout, illness, and transition* Building trust with manufacturers and how one trip to China changed everything* Financial forecasting, staying lean, and prepping for an acquisition* The gritty, real story behind selling a business - and what Eric's learned about what comes nextLinks & Resources:* ShredLights* Meepo Electric Skateboards* Physics Girl on YouTubeConnect with Eric & Neal* Connect with Eric Birkemeier* Connect with Neal Bloom This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, host Neal Bloom sits down with Eric Birkemeier, founder of ShredLights and now part of Meepo Electric Skateboards. Eric's story is a wild ride - from 3D-printing in the SDSU ZIP Launchpad and selling Jordans out of thrift stores, to building a niche hardware company and ultimately exiting to a global electric skateboard brand. They unpack how Eric turned an early failed Kickstarter into a business with over $1M+ in revenue (with zero ad spend!), the importance of discovering product-market fit through real customer feedback, and the emotional rollercoaster of running and eventually selling a hardware startup during a downturn. From bootstrapping to navigating COVID, tariffs, and copycats - Eric shares what it really takes to get to the finish line (and how the finish line is just another beginning). Key Topics Covered: From basement builds to business: Eric's early love for inventing and entrepreneurship The SDSU ZIP Launchpad, finding community, and the startup that wasn't a fit Why the wrong customers helped him discover the right market Pivoting from skate culture to the growing micro-mobility movement Scaling from 3D printers to overseas supply chains - and the lessons from doing it the hard way How Kyle and Eric's founder relationship helped them navigate burnout, illness, and transition Building trust with manufacturers and how one trip to China changed everything Financial forecasting, staying lean, and prepping for an acquisition The gritty, real story behind selling a business - and what Eric's learned about what comes next Links & Resources: ShredLights Meepo Electric Skateboards Physics Girl on YouTube Connect with Eric & Neal Connect with Eric Birkemeier Connect with Neal Bloom

This week on Tacos & Tech, Neal sits down with Drew Wilson, longtime North County founder, designer, engineer, and community builder. From launching products solo to landing a GoDaddy acquisition, Drew's track record speaks for itself. Now he's back with a new company, Opacity, and relaunching his beloved creative conference, ValioCon, right in the heart of Oceanside. In this episode, Drew shares his journey from early design days and Flash websites to building Plasso, navigating acquisition, and diving headfirst into GenAI-powered product development. He also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what's coming with Opacity, why he's bullish on version control for designers, and how tools like Midjourney and Claude are shaping his build stack. Key Points Building Plasso as a solo founder and selling to GoDaddy Going through YC while still working at GoDaddy Launching (and shutting down) a modern digital bank The origins of ValioCon and why it's back after 9 years The inspiration behind Opacity and the future of visual coding Building products in the GenAI era — what's actually different His go-to North County burrito and tales from Cave Week Links & Resources Learn more about Opacity Grab your ticket to ValioCon Connect with Drew & Neal Follow Drew on Linkedin & X Follow Neal: LinkedIn & X      

This week on Tacos & Tech, Neal sits down with Drew Wilson, longtime North County founder, designer, engineer, and community builder. From launching products solo to landing a GoDaddy acquisition, Drew's track record speaks for itself. Now he's back with a new company, Opacity, and relaunching his beloved creative conference, ValioCon, right in the heart of Oceanside.In this episode, Drew shares his journey from early design days and Flash websites to building Plasso, navigating acquisition, and diving headfirst into GenAI-powered product development. He also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what's coming with Opacity, why he's bullish on version control for designers, and how tools like Midjourney and Claude are shaping his build stack.Key Points* Building Plasso as a solo founder and selling to GoDaddy* Going through YC while still working at GoDaddy* Launching (and shutting down) a modern digital bank* The origins of ValioCon and why it's back after 9 years* The inspiration behind Opacity and the future of visual coding* Building products in the GenAI era — what's actually different* His go-to North County burrito and tales from Cave WeekLinks & ResourcesLearn more about OpacityGrab your ticket to ValioConConnect with Drew & NealFollow Drew on Linkedin & XFollow Neal: LinkedIn & X This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners, building and investing in community.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!Aug 22Defense Tech Founders Event Recap of autonomous tech and military end-usersNew org leaders: Connect - James Z. Naturally San Diego - Renee Solares Techstars - Misti CainBuyBack Ventures launchesFundingSrt Therapeutics - $47MCeresti $11MIlundent - $4M Seed RoundM&AGroGuru acquired by Goanna AgGatsby acquired KlayvioCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteDefense Tech Build Day - Aug 28Gaming Gathering Build Day - Sept 2SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech - Sept 16 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners, building and investing in community. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   Aug 22 Defense Tech Founders Event Recap of autonomous tech and military end-users New org leaders: Connect - James Z. Naturally San Diego - Renee Solares Techstars - Misti Cain BuyBack Ventures launches   Funding Srt Therapeutics - $47M Ceresti $11M Ilundent - $4M Seed Round   M&A GroGuru acquired by Goanna Ag Gatsby acquired Klayvio   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote Defense Tech Build Day - Aug 28 Gaming Gathering Build Day - Sept 2 SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech - Sept 16

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Larsen Jensen, former Olympian, Navy SEAL, and now Managing Partner of Harpoon Ventures, an early-stage venture firm backing founders building in the national interest.Larsen shares the journey from serving Team USA to launching a venture fund focused on what he calls the Freedom Stack - critical technologies like AI, autonomy, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing that shape not just industry, but national security and global stability.They explore how Harpoon was early to the intersection of tech and geopolitics, why San Diego is uniquely positioned to lead in hardtech and defense innovation, and how founders can better navigate the path to working with the U.S. government through Harpoon's new initiative: Black Flag Incubator.Key Topics Covered:* Larsen's Olympic and Navy SEAL background, and how it shaped his service-driven mission in venture* The original thesis behind Harpoon Ventures - and how the market caught up* Defining the "Freedom Stack": AI, cyber, energy, compute, defense, and more* The rise of government demand for critical technologies* Black Flag Incubator: helping founders navigate government engagement* Why San Diego is poised for hardtech and national security innovation* Advice for early-stage founders working in dual-use or deep tech* The importance of founder communities, ecosystem building, and paying it forward* Larsen's go-to taco spot (hint: it's inside Petco Park)Links & Resources:* Harpoon Ventures* Black FlagConnect with Larsen & Neal:* Larsen Jensen on LinkedIn* Neal Bloom on LinkedIn* Follow @NealBloom on Twitter This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Larsen Jensen, former Olympian, Navy SEAL, and now Managing Partner of Harpoon Ventures, an early-stage venture firm backing founders building in the national interest. Larsen shares the journey from serving Team USA to launching a venture fund focused on what he calls the Freedom Stack - critical technologies like AI, autonomy, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing that shape not just industry, but national security and global stability. They explore how Harpoon was early to the intersection of tech and geopolitics, why San Diego is uniquely positioned to lead in hardtech and defense innovation, and how founders can better navigate the path to working with the U.S. government through Harpoon's new initiative: Black Flag Incubator. Key Topics Covered: Larsen's Olympic and Navy SEAL background, and how it shaped his service-driven mission in venture The original thesis behind Harpoon Ventures - and how the market caught up Defining the "Freedom Stack": AI, cyber, energy, compute, defense, and more The rise of government demand for critical technologies Black Flag Incubator: helping founders navigate government engagement Why San Diego is poised for hardtech and national security innovation Advice for early-stage founders working in dual-use or deep tech The importance of founder communities, ecosystem building, and paying it forward Larsen's go-to taco spot (hint: it's inside Petco Park) Links & Resources: Harpoon Ventures Black Flag Connect with Larsen & Neal: Larsen Jensen on LinkedIn Neal Bloom on LinkedIn Follow @NealBloom on X

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!Aug 15SDEE event debriefBiotech layoffs: Thermo, Poseida TherapeuticsEquillium raiseScale Bio acquired by 10X GenomicsPlantible opens a 100-acre manufacturing module in TexasBAE Shipyard Gains Defense Build ContractsPrebys Foundation Donates $1M to support grant medical researchCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteDefense Tech Build Day - Aug 28Gaming Gathering Build Day - Sept 2SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech Week - Sept 16 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!   Aug 15 SDEE event debrief Biotech layoffs: Thermo, Poseida Therapeutics Equillium raise Scale Bio acquired by 10X Genomics Plantible opens a 100-acre manufacturing module in Texas BAE Shipyard Gains Defense Build Contracts Prebys Foundation Donates $1M to support grant medical research   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote Defense Tech Build Day - Aug 28 Gaming Gathering Build Day - Sept 2 SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech Week - Sept 16

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Madeline Fraser, the dynamic founder and CEO of Gemist, a B2B SaaS and AI company revolutionizing the jewelry industry.Madeline shares how a frustrating search for a custom engagement ring sparked the idea for Gemist, which now powers customization, stone sourcing, and hyper-realistic rendering for jewelry brands and retailers. With deep product insight and two previous startups under her belt - including an appearance on Shark Tank and an exit into the gaming space - Madeline unpacks how her creative background and startup experience led her to build scalable tech that's reshaping a centuries-old industry.They talk about her time on The Pitch (where she met Neal and landed Gemist's first investment round), her vision for modernizing the jewelry shopping experience, and why customization is no longer optional for today's customers.Key Topics Covered:* How Madeline turned a personal pain point into Gemist's founding story* Her Shark Tank experience - and why the deal didn't go through* What it's really like to bootstrap vs. fundraise* Why user testing came before writing a single line of code* The tech stack behind Gemist's jewelry customization engine* Scaling B2B SaaS in a traditional industry* The future of Gemist: watches, new verticals, and profitability* Startup lessons from interior design to jewelry tech* Why every founder needs grit, agility, and a chip on their shoulderLinks & Resources:* GemistConnect with Madeline & Neal* Madeline on LinkedIn* Neal Bloom on LinkedIn* @NealBloom on Twitter This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Tacos & Tech Podcast, Neal Bloom sits down with Madeline Fraser, the dynamic founder and CEO of Gemist, a B2B SaaS and AI company revolutionizing the jewelry industry. Madeline shares how a frustrating search for a custom engagement ring sparked the idea for Gemist, which now powers customization, stone sourcing, and hyper-realistic rendering for jewelry brands and retailers. With deep product insight and two previous startups under her belt - including an appearance on Shark Tank and an exit into the gaming space - Madeline unpacks how her creative background and startup experience led her to build scalable tech that's reshaping a centuries-old industry. They talk about her time on The Pitch (where she met Neal and landed Gemist's first investment round), her vision for modernizing the jewelry shopping experience, and why customization is no longer optional for today's customers. Key Topics Covered: How Madeline turned a personal pain point into Gemist's founding story Her Shark Tank experience - and why the deal didn't go through What it's really like to bootstrap vs. fundraise Why user testing came before writing a single line of code The tech stack behind Gemist's jewelry customization engine Scaling B2B SaaS in a traditional industry The future of Gemist: watches, new verticals, and profitability Startup lessons from interior design to jewelry tech Why every founder needs grit, agility, and a chip on their shoulder Links & Resources: Gemist Connect with Madeline & Neal Madeline on LinkedIn Neal Bloom on LinkedIn @NealBloom on Twitter

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms.Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News!I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast.My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter.Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community!August 8Debrief Startup SD 1st Mondays event at KILN Rancho BernardoNew Connect CEOAI products:* Seismic AI* Metro MOICFundings:* Equip Health $47M* Trovata $9M Extension Series BSaronic moves into SDAgX Food Hub moves forwardCurated Events List – For full list – check The Social CoyoteSD Defense Build Day - Aug 28Gaming Build Day - Sept 2SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech - Sept 16 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe

Listen & subscribe on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and other platforms. Welcome everyone to the weekly San Diego Tech News! I'm Neal Bloom from Rising Tide Partners and the Tacos and Tech Podcast. My co-host in this episode is Fred Grier, journalist and author of The Business of San Diego substack. He covers the ins-and-outs of the startup world including breaking news, IPOs, fundraising rounds, and M&A through his newsletter. Before we dive in, we wanted to thank and ask our listeners to help us grow the show, leave a review and share with one other person who should be more plugged in with the SD Tech Scene. Thank you for the support and for helping us build the San Diego Startup Community! August 8 Debrief Startup SD 1st Mondays event at KILN Rancho Bernardo New Connect CEO AI products: Seismic AI Metro MOIC Fundings: Equip Health $47M Trovata $9M Extension Series B Saronic moves into SD AgX Food Hub moves forward   Curated Events List – For full list – check The Social Coyote SD Defense Build Day - Aug 28 Gaming Build Day - Sept 2 SD Defense at SoCal Deep Tech - Sept 16

In this special episode of the podcast, host Neal Bloom takes us inside the Burbank Startup Pitch Fest - an exciting evening of innovation, capital, and community hosted in partnership with the City of Burbank and Rising Tide Partners. We kick things off with a welcome from Burbank's Economic Development team, highlighting why the city is fast becoming a tech and media hub. Neal then moderates a candid conversation with early-stage investors Amy Harmon (Innovent Capital) and Ben Kahan (Pegasus Angel Accelerator) about today's venture landscape - from what they look for in a pre-seed deal to how AI and founder-market fit are shaping startup success. Then, five founders take the stage to pitch their startups: KATSHID: A frictionless, passwordless biometric identity platform Geri Gadgets: Sensory tools supporting cognitive wellness in dementia and neurodivergent populations Blip Industries: Drone-powered logistics, imaging, and defense systems Health-e-Habits: Digital wellness programming helping families build mindful relationships with tech Aspivix (Winner): A modern, non-traumatic alternative to the gynecological tenaculum, improving IUD and reproductive care From pitch insights to early-stage investing frameworks, this episode is packed with startup wisdom and a strong dose of real talk from the entrepreneurial front lines. Recorded live at Burbank Startup Pitch Fest 2025.

In this special episode of the podcast, host Neal Bloom takes us inside the Burbank Startup Pitch Fest - an exciting evening of innovation, capital, and community hosted in partnership with the City of Burbank and Rising Tide Partners.We kick things off with a welcome from Burbank's Economic Development team, highlighting why the city is fast becoming a tech and media hub. Neal then moderates a candid conversation with early-stage investors Amy Harmon (Innovent Capital) and Ben Kahan (Pegasus Angel Accelerator) about today's venture landscape - from what they look for in a pre-seed deal to how AI and founder-market fit are shaping startup success.Then, five founders take the stage to pitch their startups:* KATSHID: A frictionless, passwordless biometric identity platform* Geri Gadgets: Sensory tools supporting cognitive wellness in dementia and neurodivergent populations* Blip Industries: Drone-powered logistics, imaging, and defense systems* Health-e-Habits: Digital wellness programming helping families build mindful relationships with tech* Aspivix (Winner): A modern, non-traumatic alternative to the gynecological tenaculum, improving IUD and reproductive careFrom pitch insights to early-stage investing frameworks, this episode is packed with startup wisdom and a strong dose of real talk from the entrepreneurial front lines.Recorded live at Burbank Startup Pitch Fest 2025. Join us at the next Burbank Tech Talks on October 14 during #LATechWeek. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe